AceShowbiz - Ridley Scott remains captivated by the Roman Empire. Ahead of the highly-anticipated "Gladiator II", slated for November 15 internationally and November 22 in North America, the Oscar-nominated director hinted at a potential third installment.

"I've already started thinking about Gladiator 3," Scott told Premiere. "I've ignited the fuse. The end of Gladiator II echoes The Godfather, with Michael Corleone wondering, 'What do I do now, Father?' So the next film will explore a man who doesn't want the position he's in."

Paramount declined to comment on the franchise's future, which began with Scott's 2000 Oscar-winning historical epic "Gladiator", starring Russell Crowe.

In "Gladiator II", Paul Mescal portrays Lucius, a young man who witnessed the demise of Maximus (Crowe) at the hands of Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix) in the original film. Now an adult, Lucius is forced into the Colosseum to restore Rome's glory. The sequel also features Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, and Connie Nielsen, who reprises her role as Lucius' mother, Lucilla.

Scott, who previously suggested that "Gladiator II" ending paralleled "The Godfather", elaborated on his inspiration for the potential third film. "The next one will be about a man who doesn't want to be where he is," he explained.

Scott also hinted at a possible collaboration with Paul Mescal for "Gladiator III", acknowledging that the actor had recently learned of his plans. While expressing interest, Mescal cautioned against rushing the process.

Regardless of the fate of "Gladiator III", the original "Gladiator" remains a critically acclaimed masterpiece, earning five Oscars and receiving 12 nominations. Scott himself believes Gladiator II is "as good" as the original, setting high expectations for its release on November 22.